French Guiana is not an everyday destination for backpackers and travelers, but I wouldn't recommend it world traveler if I were to skip the relatively unknown country. I therefore decided to discover the country independently, where there are hardly any tours and accommodations available. Fortunately, French Guiana can be combined well with Suriname en Guyana in the northernmost part of South America, so I didn't come here for just one country.
Will you join me on a journey of discovery through this part of France on the other side of the world? Here are the top 10 unique highlights for a visit to French Guiana!
Top 10 sights in French Guiana
1. Guyana Space Center
At a distance of about 500 km from the equator, the space station is located in Kourou. Since 1968, this location has been perfect for launching rockets into space European Space Agency (ESA). The Guyana Space Center (also known as CSG) is to America what NASA's Kennedy Space Center is to America space station from Europe.
Also read: Kennedy Space Center + rocket launch | Our experience & tips
The site is enormous and offers free guided tours every day. Although the tours are usually only in French, it often happens that the group is large and there are several participants who speak little French. In such cases, part of the tour will be translated into English.
The tour lasts a total of 3 hours and includes a visit to both the control rooms where missile launches are prepared and the missile launch platforms. Many of these platforms are still in use, and some well-known launches include those of the Ariane en Vega. Rockets were once launched from here by Russia, but since a war this is no longer allowed. However, Russia's launch pads can still be viewed up close.
Also read: Admire Starship from SpaceX | Our Starbase visit in Boca Chica, Texas
2. Capital Cayenne
Cayenne is the capital of the French Guiana department in France. It is located on a peninsula between two estuaries. The city itself is not very big and can easily be explored on foot in a day. The large international airport is also located here, where flights from Paris arrive daily.
Cayenne is best known for its annual carnival. From Fort Cépérou you can enjoy a beautiful view of the city and the surrounding mountains that surround it. Sights such as Place Grenoble and Place des Palmistes are also very popular among visitors. In addition, there are several museums that highlight the history of French Guiana.
3. Hike trail Sentier de la Montagne des Singes
Just outside the town of Kourou lies the imposing mountain Montagne des Singes, which means 'monkey mountain'. A beautiful walking route of approximately 4 kilometers has been mapped out here. At the top of the mountain you will enjoy a breathtaking view of the entire site of the Guyana Space Center. During the walk, which takes you through dense forests, there is also the opportunity to spot different species of monkeys.
4. Hike trail Sentier du rorota
Just outside the capital Cayenne there is a hiking trail that winds through the tropical rainforest and runs along the sea, with breathtaking views. This route is 5,6 kilometers long, easily accessible and clearly signposted, so you will have no trouble finding your way. It is a popular walking route that is often used by locals.
5. Beach at Kourou
French Guiana has an extensive coastline, but there are few beaches due to the large difference between high and low tides. Close to the coast you often find a lot of mud or sand, which makes entering the water difficult. Despite this, the views are exceptionally beautiful.
6. Papillon Prison
The prison at Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni, world famous thanks to the book and film “Butterfly“, was for a long time the most talked about prison in France. Nowadays the prison has been converted into a museum, where you can walk around with a guide and see how the prisoners lived.
7. Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni
There is a small town on the border with Suriname that mainly functions as a connection point between Suriname and France. In this town you can visit the prison, which is easily accessible from here. Moreover, the town is a convenient stopover for travelers to and from Suriname, where you can find everything you need.
8. Ile du salut
Off the coast of French Guiana there is a group of islands with beautiful small islands. Various tours can be organized from Kourou to go to these islands by boat. On one of these islands there is a prison that was used by France for the most serious criminals. Although this prison is no longer in use, it can still be visited with a guide.
9. Tropical rainforest
Most of French Guiana consists of pristine tropical rainforest, which is strictly protected. It is difficult to reach, but there are options to get there. By far the easiest, albeit most expensive, option is by plane. Despite the difficulty of getting there, the rainforest is breathtakingly beautiful. However, many tourists skip it due to accessibility challenges.
10. Montjoly/ Albina Beach
Montjoly/Albina beach is located near the Sentier du Rorota hiking trail, near Cayenne. As in Kourou, there is a significant difference between high and low tides, so the area close to the beach is often covered in mud or sand. Although it is important to exercise caution, visitors can still enjoy the beautiful beach.
Closing comments
French Guiana offers a number of unique experiences, from beautiful nature to historical sights and cultural highlights. The combination with Suriname and Guyana creates a fascinating adventure in the northernmost part of South America. Whether you enjoy the breathtaking rainforests, discover fascinating history in museums and old prisons, or simply relax on a secluded beach, a trip to French Guiana promises to be an unforgettable experience. Are you ready to discover the charms of this French part of South America?
French Guiana is best visited in combination with Suriname. Djoser is currently the only Dutch travel provider that sells an organized trip to this special destination.
Are you ready for a unique adventure? Then take a quick look at the current offer!
- Unique destination
- Off the beaten track
- Cultural heritage
- Special nature